Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Prayers and support after Vauxhall helicopter crash

A church close to the scene of a fatal helicopter crash in London this morning has opened its doors to support those affected.

St Anne and All Saints Church, South Lambeth offered pastoral care
for witnesses and members of the emergency crews who responded to the
accident.Two people were killed and 12 hurt when the helicopter collided with a crane on top of a building in Vauxhall.The pilot, named as Pete Barnes, was killed, along with one person on the ground.

Journalists covering the incident were also welcomed into the church, which has been serving coffee throughout the day.The Church of England has published special prayers for those caught up in the tragedy and disaster.

They read:O Lord our God,
Source of all goodness and love,
accept the fervent prayers of your people;
in the multitude of your mercies look with compassion
upon all who turn to you for help;
for you are gracious, O lover of souls,
and to you we give glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
now and for ever.
Amen

Lord of all compassion
We pray for all of those caught up in the midst of tragedy or disaster.
For those who have lost life and those working to save life
For those who are worried for people they love
For those who will see their loved ones no longer
Lord Have Mercy.
For those in need of the peace that passes all understanding
For all who turn to you in the midst of turmoil
For those who cry out to you in fear and in love
Lord Have Mercy.
For those in confusion and those in despair
For those whose tears are yet to dry
For those in need of your unending love
Lord Have Mercy
Amen